Yonghua Song, rector of the University of Macau (UM), attended the Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) 2026 Conference and Exhibition in Hong Kong. During the event, he engaged in in-depth discussions on international exchange and cooperation in higher education, presenting UM’s achievements in interdisciplinary educational innovation and its forward-looking vision for internationalisation, contributing UM’s strength to the innovative development of higher education in the Asia-Pacific region and global educational cooperation.
Song was a guest speaker at the Presidents Dialogue, which took place during the conference and was themed ‘Building Resilience and Trust in an Era of Global Risks. During the panel discussion ‘Future-Proofing Education: Preparing Students for a World of Disruptions ’, Song presented UM’s educational approaches and initiatives in response to global transformations. He noted that the world today is marked by accelerating technological change, rising global uncertainties, and the widespread dissemination of misinformation. As key institutions responsible for talent cultivation and knowledge innovation, universities must break down the traditional barriers between faculties and disciplines. He added that interdisciplinary integration is essential for driving systemic reform in higher education and nurturing innovative talent capable of navigating complex global challenges.
In addition, Wang Chunming, director of the UM Global Affairs Office, delivered a presentation at the exhibition. He outlined UM’s philosophy of connecting Eastern and Western cultures, strengthening interdisciplinary intellectual pursuits, and promoting internationalisation beyond geographical boundaries.
Established in 2004, the Asia-Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) is a widely recognised platform for higher education exchange. It aims is to promote the development and cooperation of higher education in the Asia-Pacific region. The APAIE Conference and Exhibition is the association’s flagship event, providing an opportunity for educators to strengthen connections and explore developments in international higher education.
